Wednesday, July 2, 2003

As we celebrate the July 4th Independence Day on Friday, let us remember that waving the flag is the easy part; the hard part is paying for it.

Some have given their lives protecting our rights; others sacrifice material gains and family time to do the same. Whether it is those in the military, our police and fire departments, medical and teaching fields, and yes, those who make up our government, we need to thank those who help keep our country safe and strong.

The only thing most of us are called upon to do is to pay taxes and vote while we care for our families, but for some this is too much to ask. Please take the time to know who you are voting for, not just a familiar name.

Go to a council meeting and observe those who you have elected and what their priorities really are, not just the sound bites of political campaigns. Make sure our tax money is well spent, not squandered but realize that like any family, others may not see another person's needs as their priority.

Our country will be no better than the people we elect. Please, get involved and let's be careful out there.

Kathie Cheney

Peachtree City, Ga.